A final Planning Inspectors’ report has ruled that the Local Plan for sustainable development in Colchester can be found legally sound, and accordingly will be presented to the Local Plan Committee on the 13 June 2022, prior to Full Council.
The Planning Inspectorate has examined Section Two of Colchester’s Local Plan, which includes policies and site allocations which can be used for considering planning applications within the borough. As well as identifying sites for housing, the policies seek to ensure there is land for economic growth and that supporting infrastructure is provided. The Plan includes new homes and supporting infrastructure at Middlewick Ranges.
The Inspectorate’s final report follows a formal Examination in Public and consultation on modifications to the plan, in 2021. The Inspectors considered around 1,192 comments, which were received in the latest consultation, as well as those made in previous consultations, before coming to their conclusions.
Now, after scrutinising the plan and supporting evidence and hearing from stakeholders, the Inspectorate has said the plans can go ahead – subject to Colchester’s councillors agreeing.
If agreed by the Local Plan Committee, the Plan will be recommended to Full Council for a final vote on adoption.
Lindsay Barker, Colchester Borough Council Strategic Director for Policy and Place, said: “Local Plans are often a long and difficult process, but it is really important to provide a strategy for the growth of Colchester to 2033 and beyond.
“The Local Plan provides a mechanism to plan for the sustainable development of homes, businesses and infrastructure, whilst protecting the environment, Colchester’s rich history and heritage and the rural environment and coast beyond.”
More information can be found on our website here.
Page last reviewed: 24 May 2022